The weird and 'what'? of Illinois' new laws

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December 31, 2012|By Mick Swasko, @mickswasko | RedEye

The new year marks about 150 new laws that go into effect in Illinois. Some have been well publicized, like a $3 per-person surcharge for those entering strip clubs that will be donated to charity, or making it a crime for parents to allow minors to drink in their homes.

But others are a little more obscure, and in some cases, cause a little head-scratching as to why there wasn’t already a law in the first place. Here’s a rundown of some of the stranger sides to Illinois legislation for 2013. (In all cases, “HB” and “SB” indicate “House Bill” and “Senate Bill” respectively. A full list can be found here.)

SB 2949 – Non-religious universities must now allow students to reschedule an exam or class if there is a religious reason, unless there is “unnecessary hardship” created.

HB 4691 – Ambulances are no longer required to pay tolls.

HB 5101 – Drivers of commercial vehicles may no longer text or use a handheld phone while driving.

SB 3336 – Inline skaters may now travel in traffic, as long as they meet certain conditions.

SB 3579 – Child sex offenders are prohibited from participating in holiday events, like handing out candy on Halloween or dressing as Santa, “unless under specific circumstances.”

HB 4440 – Creates a formal process for senior “free ride” cards for public transportation to be revoked or voided upon the person’s death.

SB 3237 – The City of Chicago must provide all licensed plumbers with hard plastic photo ID cards.

HB 5314 -- Landlords can now email itemized bills to tenants for damages to the rental property.

HB 5056 – It’s now a crime to use a dead persons handicapped parking sign or license plate.

HB 3888 – Law enforcement officials can now order boat owners to remove plant or animal life from their boats, to prevent the spread of invasive species.